To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which NATO countries separate the command, control and ownership of attack and support helicopters between the army and air force. [15328]

Among NATO countries only the United Kingdom separates the ownership of anti-tank and support helicopters, between the Army and Royal Air Force respectively. The Strategic Defence Review is examining a range of options for the structure and management of the three Services' helicopter forces.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the cost benefits to his Departmental budget of combining attack and support helicopters under one service. [15327]

The Strategic Defence Review is examining a range of options for the structure and management of the three Services' helicopter forces, which will be costed as appropriate. It would be premature to discuss particular options at this stage in the Review process.